Experience in Dublin, Ireland by Ciaran

What is it like to live in Dublin? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Dublin is a beautiful city to live in. There is always something happening everyday. I would highly recommend living there. There is a special energy that vibrates around the city centre. The people are very friendly and the main streets are very safe.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dublin?

Student lifestyle in Dublin is great. There is lots to do and see. There are pubs and clubs open every night and there's always a popular event on each night. The colleges are extremely helpful to students and Erasmus students. Any issues with regards to registration and exams, etc. are resolved very quickly. University is of a high standard in Dublin.

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Unfortunately, accommodation is a big problem in Dublin for students. Not only is it expensive, but there is also a lack of student accommodation. You would need to research and have an idea of where you want to live ASAP.

Good news is that students get discounts for loads of things such as transport, nightclubs, shops and certain events.

How much does it cost to live in Dublin?

• Accommodation is not cheap. (Approx. €500 p/m (including bills) Many places in South Dublin inner city will cost more.
• Alcohol. Pints in bars in the city will cost an average of €4. 50. They're a lot cheaper in shops.
• Eating out in a nice restaurant for 2 people and a 3 course meal will cost about €50-€60.
• Transport is a fair cost. But avoid taxi as they can be quite expensive.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Dublin? Is there any advice you can give?

It is quite difficult. If you are an Erasmus student I would advise you to contact the coordinator of your Irish university and ask about accommodation and try sort it out as quick as possible. There is nice student accommodation around the place if you can get it early.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food here is great! In terms of Irish dishes I would recommend the following:

• Breakfast: Sunday fry-up (sausages, beans, bacon, eggs, pudding, soda bread/toast) [great for the hangovers! ]
• Lunch/dinner: Soda bread with potato & leek soup, beef stew, coddle, Irish salmon, shepherds pie.
• Desserts: Irish coffee (whiskey), baileys cheesecake, apple tart, and barmbrack fruit loaf.

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What places would you recommend visiting in Dublin?

• Guinness factory,
• Croke Park (Gaelic football stadium),
• The Spire,
• Grafton Street,
• St. Stephens Green,
• History museum,
• Temple Bar,
• Phoenix Park.

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Is it good to eat out in Dublin? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I have no favourites but Dublin is a great place to eat out. You have loads of options in terms of cuisine and price. Expensive areas to eat would be Temple bar and some South side areas.

Is the nightlife good in Dublin? Where is good to go?

Brilliant nightlife! For casual pints and a great atmosphere with live music and sing-a-longs go to Temple Bar. For nightclubs go to Harcourt Street. It has several great nightclubs along this big street (Coppers, Diceys, D-Two, etc. ).

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What advice would you give future students heading to Dublin?

Plan your accommodation early. Don't be afraid to talk to the locals, they are very friendly. Bring clothes for the bad weather. Budget your nights out as it can get expensive drinking in pubs and nightclubs all the time. Join Erasmus Facebook groups that are going to Dublin.